The solar PV power station is expected to provide around 40 per cent of the Showground’s power needs, with 12,500 panels installed over six separate buildings, covering a total area of 9,000 sq m over six roofs and two building facades.

Installation of the solar panels and associated systems was managed by building and engineering company Built Environs in partnership with Solar Shop Australia.

The project introduced a number of construction innovations, including a special rack-loading system that enabled the solar panels to be stacked on pallets, lifted onto the roof by crane and then distributed via trolleys on framing rails.

A clip-on extrusion framing system was also used to minimise the number of holes needed to be drilled in the roof. To install the panels, drilling rigs were custom made for each of the major roofs, while cloth and mesh screens prevented drilling waste from entering the stormwater collection system.

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The work was performed while the Showground remained open to the public.

“Having now installed the largest solar power system in Australia , we are hoping that more Australians will realise the benefits of solar energy and what it can do for the environment,” said Solar Shop Australia’s Managing Director Adrian Ferraretto.

“Built Environs is very pleased to have worked with Solar Shop Australia in delivering this landmark environmental project for the Showground,” said Built Environs Managing Director Jim Frith.